Buildings

The buildings and other manmade structures listed in the sixth line symbolize the unexpected majesty of the urban landscape. While many of Wordsworth’s poems feature awe-inspiring natural landmarks such as mountains and oceans, here the speaker draws attention to the “ships, towers, domes, theatres, and temples” of the city (6). This wide range of architectural marvels imbues the city with its own sense of majesty and wonder, distinct from but also connected to the beautiful landmarks of nature. The description of these structures as “bright and glittering” gives them an even stronger sense of wonder and beauty (8).

The Sun

The sun, as referenced in the ninth line of the poem, symbolizes the revelation the speaker experiences over the course of the poem. Often times the sun and sunlight is associated with enlightenment or the uncovering of some truth as it both literally and figuratively sheds light...